🐾 Dog-Friendly Tamar Lakes at a Glance
📍 Location: Near Bude, Cornwall (/Devon)
🦮 Lead Rules: Yes, but kept on a lead at all times
🚶 Walk Length: Circular lakeside trails and longer countryside routes
🌿 Terrain: Lakeside paths, woodland edges, open countryside
🦋 Wildlife: The lakes are home to an abundance of wildlife and any disturbance to their habitats can be detrimental
🚻 Facilities: Cafe, visitor centre, toilets, picnic areas
🅿️ Parking: Pay-and-display parking available
⚠️ Safety: Reservoirs are not safe for your dog to swim in or drink from as algae may be present in the water
About
Tamar Lakes sit just inland from Bude, offering a peaceful setting of open water, woodland edges, and miles of easy walking paths. The area comprises two reservoirs, Upper Tamar Lake and Lower Tamar Lake, surrounded by nature trails and wide-open views across the countryside.
It’s a lovely change of pace from the coast. Instead of waves and cliffs, you’ll find calm water, birdsong, and circular lakeside walks that work well for relaxed outings with your dog.
Although we list Tamar Lakes as a Cornwall location, it’s worth knowing that the county boundary between Cornwall and Devon runs directly through the middle of the lakes. In other words, as you walk around the reservoirs, you’ll likely cross between the two counties without even noticing.
For dog owners visiting Bude, Tamar Lakes offer a calm inland escape, perfect for an easy lakeside walk, a coffee stop, and a relaxed day exploring nature together.
Dog Access and Rules
Dogs are welcome around Tamar Lakes. Most paths are wide and open; however, dogs should remain on a lead under close control, particularly around wildlife, fishermen, and other walkers.
There are a few simple guidelines to follow:
- Keep dogs on leads.
- Prevent dogs from entering the water.
- Always pick up after your dog and use the bins provided.
Things To See & Do
Tamar Lakes are perfect for easy, scenic walks with your dog.
You have several walking options depending on how long you want to spend at the lakes and your energy levels.
The circular trail around Lower Tamar Lake provides a relaxed lakeside route with gentle terrain. The path passes through woodland sections, open waterside stretches, and quiet viewpoints where you can pause and watch the birds.
Upper Tamar Lake feels more open and peaceful, with wider views and quieter paths. It’s a great place if your dog enjoys longer rambles away from busy areas.
Dogs will enjoy:
- Lakeside trails ideal for steady walks
- Woodland edges and grassy paths for exploring
- Plenty of new scents from birds and wildlife
- Open countryside views around the reservoirs
The lakes are also used for activities like sailing, kayaking, and fishing, which can make the area lively on warmer days.
Access and Facilities
Tamar Lakes is roughly a 20-minute drive from Bude, offering good visitor facilities, making it an easy place to spend a few hours with your dog.
There are several parking areas around the lakes, with the main visitor hub located at Lower Tamar Lake. From here, trails lead out around the water and into the surrounding countryside.
Facilities typically include:
- Pay-and-display parking
- Visitor centre and cafe
- Public toilets
- Picnic areas
- Water sports centre at Lower Tamar Lake
The main lakeside paths are generally well-maintained and relatively flat, suitable for most walkers and dogs.
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